Negotiating checklist on the health and safety of new and expectant mothers

Reps can aim to:

• ensure that the employer is aware of specific risks in the workplace that may affect a new or expectant mother;

• try to ensure that a second and automatic risk assessment is carried out when the mother returns to work after her maternity leave, and any new risks are identified and addressed;

• ensure that there is a suitable place for nursing mothers to express and store milk, and make arrangements with the employer that breastfeeding employees can take time during the day to express milk;

• ensure that employers take appropriate action when a significant health and safety risk has been identified for a new or expectant mother, this may require a temporary adjustment of working conditions, offering suitable alternative work or a maternity suspension;

• ensure that employees who are pregnant are receiving more frequent breaks.